Nissan celebrated the 20th anniversary of its European design center by unveiling the Concept 20-23, a stunning electric hot hatch that may serve as a preview for the design of their next Micra subcompact hatch, slated for release in 2024. Located in London, the design center has played a significant role in developing Nissan’s production and concept designs, such as the captivating Concept 2020 Vision Gran Turismo in 2014.
Dubbed the Concept 20-23 to commemorate the design center’s anniversary as well as the current year, the design brief for this electric hot hatch was to have no constraints. The resulting design exudes the spirit of a rally car, heavily influenced by the world of online racing simulators. Its pumped fenders, multiple intakes at the front, and an oversized wing and diffuser combination at the rear give it a visually striking appearance reminiscent of a race car. Additionally, modern details like thin LEDs shaped like semi circles for the headlights and taillights, as well as cameras serving as side mirrors, bring a futuristic touch to the design.
Stepping inside the Concept 20-23, the interior mirrors the race car feel of the exterior with a minimalistic approach. Most comfort features have been stripped away, leaving only the essentials, such as a pair of seats and a pair of screens. The focus is on creating an immersive driving experience rather than providing luxurious amenities.
Nissan has revealed that the next Micra will be built on the CMF-B EV platform, a modular platform developed by the Renault Nissan Mitsubishi Alliance specifically for subcompact models with electric powertrains. Renault, another partner in the alliance, will also utilize the same platform for their modern 5 hatch and the related Alpine A290 performance variant. While the Concept 20-23 showcased two doors, the production version of the Micra is expected to have four doors, catering to the practicality needs of subcompact hatchback buyers.
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However, it is worth noting that there are currently no plans to introduce vehicles based on the CMF-B EV platform in the United States. Thus, this exciting electric hot hatch and the next Micra may not be available to American car enthusiasts in the near future.
Nissan’s Concept 20-23 serves as a testament to the creative prowess of its European design center. The bold and aggressive design language, coupled with the electrified powertrain technology, demonstrates Nissan’s commitment to pushing boundaries and delivering innovative solutions to meet the evolving demands of the automotive market.
As the automotive industry continues to shift towards electric vehicles and alternative powertrains, the Concept 20-23 represents Nissan’s vision for the future of urban mobility. With its compact size, dynamic styling, and electric propulsion, the upcoming Micra and other subcompact models built on the CMF-B EV platform aim to provide a sustainable and exciting driving experience for urban dwellers.
In conclusion, Nissan’s European design center celebrates its 20th anniversary with the unveiling of the Concept 20-23. This electric hot hatch, expected to provide a glimpse into the design of the next Micra, showcases a bold and aggressive aesthetic influenced by the world of online racing simulators. Built on the CMF-B EV platform, the Micra aims to combine compact practicality with electric powertrain technology. While not currently planned for release in the United States, the Concept 20-23 exemplifies Nissan’s commitment to innovation in the realm of urban mobility. With its striking design and sustainable propulsion, the Micra and other subcompact models built on the CMF-B EV platform offer an exciting glimpse into the future of Nissan’s lineup and the automotive industry as a whole.
